Video: New firefighters join West Sussex service

Published:11:49Monday 21 May 2018

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A dozen new Wholetime Community Firefighters from across West Sussex were welcomed to the service at a pass out parade.

The celebration at Horley Fire Station gave the new firefighters the opportunity to showcase their new skills to their family and friends, as well as the senior management team from the service and county councillors.

Jordan O’Hara, East Preston. Prior to joining the Fire and Rescue Service, Jordan used to run her own personal training and boot camp business.

Satpal Nagi from Felpham used to work in the health and fitness industry helping people with weight management and developing skills as a soft tissue and corrective exercise therapist.

Gary Simmonds, Horsham. Gary first applied to join the Fire and Rescue Service when he was 19 and now 13 years on he has achieved his goal.

During the course, they embarked on a combination of practical and theoretical training to equip them with the skills and knowledge they need to ensure they are able to serve and protect the residents of West Sussex.

The 12 firefighters are now qualified to commence their work at their allocated fire stations.

Gavin Watts, Chief Fire Officer for West Sussex, said: “We’ve been lucky enough to see this group’s strong work ethic and sheer determination throughout their training journey.

“I wish each and every one of them a long and successful career within our Fire and Rescue Service.”

Debbie Kennard, Cabinet Member for Stronger, Safer Communities, said: “This is such a proud day for the new firefighters and for their families and friends. I am so delighted to welcome them to the fire service family. You have chosen a very special career. I wish you all the best!”

The new recruits recently undertook a charity challenge which involved cutting up a whole car in less than an hour into small enough pieces to fit through a tractor tyre. Their efforts raised £820 for The Fire Fighters Charity and Together for Tyler, a local campaign run by Spirit FM.

West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service is currently recruiting for new Wholetime Community Firefighters until 30 May and is also looking to recruit on-call crews. To find out more about being a firefighter in West Sussex visit www.westsussex.gov.uk/fire.